Special Collections Archivist I

The J. Paul Getty Trust
vision insurance, paid holidays, 403(b), retirement plan
United States, California, Los Angeles
1200 Getty Center Drive (Show on map)
Feb 14, 2026
Special Collections Archivist I Job Family Library Type LT Full-Time Position Status Getty Center Workplace Type Onsite Salaried/Hourly Salaried Hiring Pay Scale $62,540 - $79,732 Annually Salary Commensurate with experience and internal equity Program/Department Research Institute - 0420-Special Collections Management Requisition Number 2026-4740 Getty is committed to creating a welcoming workplace that reflects the various backgrounds of the communities we serve. We value differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status. Job Summary Getty seeks applications from detail-oriented individuals to fill a three-year, limited-term position as an Archivist I, joining the Getty Research Institute's (GRI) long-running project of processing the Frank Gehry Papers. Documenting the developmental stage of the Pritzker Prize-winning architect's career, the archive includes drawings, project records, models, correspondence, photographic material, and ephemera relating to over 280 projects designed between 1954 and 1988. Located at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, the GRI is committed to advancing knowledge and understanding of the visual arts and their histories. Serving an international community of scholars, the Research Library is one of the world's largest art and architecture libraries, with holdings exceeding 1.5 million volumes. Our Special Collections encompass rare books and journals, photographs, prints and drawings from the 15th century to the present, architectural plans and models, art multiples, film, audio and video recordings, born-digital content, and extensive archives and manuscript collections. Reporting to the lead archivist for the Frank Gehry Papers, the Archivist I will join a project begun in 2018 with over 15,000 linear feet of material processed to date. Duties of the Archivist I will include physically processing and describing material according to archival best practices; contributing to the online finding aid in compliance with national standards; consulting regularly with the project lead, and with colleagues throughout the GRI as appropriate; assisting with the preparation of the catalogue raisonne; serving as point person for the imaging of the sketches and general imaging quality control; and participating in outreach activities related to the collection. Major Job Responsibilities Arranges, processes, and re-houses sections of the archive as assigned Creates new metadata of advanced complexity based on standards, best, research and analysis. Applies advanced knowledge to edit, aggregate, enhance, transform, and disseminate existing metadata Identifies, analyzes, and resolves issues related to work within the section Makes decisions regarding storage and preservation of collection materials in consultation with others Maintains current knowledge in standards, best practices, and specialized subjects, formats, and systems Undertakes special projects as assigned Qualifications Graduate degree in Library and Information Studies, Architectural History, Architecture, Art History or a related discipline 0-2 years related professional experience May require related supervisory experience and/or project management experience May require advanced subject, language, and/or technical expertise Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of library and archives professional standards, such as DACS, EAD, LCSH, AAT Experience with ArchivesSpace or other collection management systems preferred Knowledge of architecture and architectural history preferred Experience handling architectural materials preferred Ability to meet deadlines, apply policies and procedures consistently, conduct research, and present recommendations Strong written and verbal communication skills Ability to work both independently and collaboratively Strong attention to detail Ability to lift boxes and move book trucks up to 40 pounds Ability to climb ladders Must have means of transportation to work sites at both the Getty Center in Brentwood and the Getty's off-site facility approximately 30 miles to the north Benefits and Perks Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected. 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan - with up to 5% Getty Match Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account Educational Assistance and professional development Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days 12 Paid Holidays Many positions have bi-weekly off-Fridays On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center Community service opportunities To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.